Vermillion County- March 30, 2020, at approximately 7:05 p.m., Trooper Brad Fyfe was patrolling in the area of State Road 63 and Trinity Avenue, when he stopped a 2020 Toyota for traveling 119 miles per hour. Upon speaking to the driver, Trooper Fyfe instantly observed that the driver was very agitated and appeared to be under the influence of a controlled substance. Trooper Fyfe asked for the driver to step out of the vehicle for further investigation. The driver refused to exit the vehicle and became a passive resister, ignoring Trooper Fyfe’s orders. Trooper Fyfe then provided ample assistance in order to help the driver out of the vehicle. Once the driver was out of the vehicle Trooper Fyfe attempted to place the driver into handcuffs, but there was active resistance and a brief struggle ensued. A passerby on State Road 63 observed the active scene and immediately stopped to assist Trooper Fyfe. The passerby remained at the scene until other officers arrived.
The driver was then identified as Nathaniel T. Varner, age 41, of Saint Augustine, Florida. A search was conducted and it was discovered that Varner was in possession of methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and marijuana. Two children, both under the age of 18, were in the vehicle with Varner. The Vermillion County Department of Child Services was contacted and the two children were released to their grandparents. Varner refused to submit to a certified chemical test and was taken to the Vermillion County Jail.
Assisting: Trooper Daniel Organ, Vigo County Sheriff’s Department and West Terre Haute Police Department.
Arrest and Charges: Nathaniel T. Varner, 41, Saint Augustine, FL
- Operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a passenger less than 18 years of age, Class 6 Felony (2 counts)
- Neglect of dependent, Class 6 Felony (2 counts)
- Possession of methamphetamine, Class 6 Felony
- Possession of heroin, Class 6 Felony
- Possession of cocaine, Class 6 Felony
- Possession of marijuana, Class B Misdemeanor
- Operating a vehicle while intoxicated, Class A Misdemeanor
- Operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangering a person, Class C Misdemeanor
- Resisting law enforcement, Class A Misdemeanor
- Disorderly conduct, Class B Misdemeanor
- Reckless driving, Class A Misdemeanor
All criminal defendants are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
